NIDCOM Boss Applauds ISDEVCOM for Honouring Air Peace CEO, Calls for More Recognition of Diaspora Efforts
The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has commended the Institute of Strategic and Development Communication (ISDEVCOM) of Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) for honouring the Chairman of Air Peace, Barr. Allen Onyema, with a humanitarian award.
The recognition comes in appreciation of his patriotic contributions in evacuating stranded Nigerians from crisis-hit regions, including Ukraine, South Africa, and Sudan.
Dabiri-Erewa also advocated for the recognition of Chief Callistus Elozieuea, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NiDO) Board of Trustees in Ghana.
She praised his exceptional dedication in rescuing and repatriating over 170 Nigerians from Ghana, describing it as a testament to national pride and selfless service.
“Utilising personal resources for humanitarian efforts exemplifies true patriotism and service to humanity,” she stated during a courtesy visit by the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the 6th International Conference on Communication and Development, scheduled for March at NSUK.
The delegation, led by Chief Uzoma Onyegbadue, Registrar of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), formally invited Hon. Dabiri-Erewa to serve as the keynote speaker at the conference themed “Japa: Communicating Migration, Diaspora, and Africa’s Development.” The event is set to take place from 27–28 March 2025 at the university’s Assembly Hall.
Accepting the invitation, the NIDCOM boss reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to fostering partnerships that address migration issues.
“I am honoured to be part of this important conversation. Migration has both positive and negative sides. While we must curb irregular migration, we should also focus on leveraging diaspora contributions for national development. Nigerians abroad have achieved remarkable feats, and we must find ways to tap into these positives,” she remarked.
She further stressed the importance of effective communication in tackling migration challenges.
“Communication is key to bridging gaps between academia and practical solutions. We must educate our people about migration realities while fostering opportunities for growth. I commend ISDEVCOM’s dedication to this cause; together, we can create impactful narratives that resonate across communities.”
Earlier, Chief Onyegbadue emphasised the significance of the conference, describing it as a crucial platform for addressing migration-related issues.
“Our purpose in coming here is to seek your blessing as a mother. We need your cooperation and support for the forthcoming 6th International Conference. The theme ‘Japa’ has become central to global discussions on migration and development, and there is no better institution than NIDCOM to anchor this conversation,” he said.
He lauded NIDCOM’s efforts in protecting Nigerians abroad and promoting diaspora contributions to national growth.
“Your leadership has been instrumental in addressing these critical issues, and partnering with us will add value to your advocacy efforts and diaspora funding initiatives.”
Adding his voice, Nollywood actor and Public Relations Officer for ISDEVCOM Scholars and Alumni Association, Francis Duru, underscored the necessity of strategic communication in tackling migration challenges.
“Leadership without communication is useless. We need NIDCOM’s support to bridge the gap between ‘town and gown.’ Your passion for addressing migration challenges inspires us. We must not only discuss the Japa phenomenon but also find actionable solutions.
“The gap between academia and practical application is vast, and your involvement can help create a robust dialogue leading to tangible outcomes,” he stated.
He stressed that development efforts without effective communication would be futile, calling for a stronger collaboration between NIDCOM and ISDEVCOM.
Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Vice President of ISDEVCOM Scholars and Alumni, Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, outlined key highlights of the upcoming conference.
She announced that Barr. Allen Onyema, CEO of Air Peace, would be honoured for his outstanding role in rescuing stranded Nigerians abroad, alongside Pastor Stephen Shola, who has been at the forefront of rescuing children from harmful traditional practices such as infanticide.
The conference will also feature a fireside discussion titled “Empowering Africa’s Youth: Strategies for Addressing Migration,” which will be led by young leaders focused on crafting solutions for migration-related challenges.
With the upcoming conference set to provide a platform for dialogue on migration, diaspora contributions, and national development, stakeholders are optimistic that it will yield lasting solutions to the pressing issues surrounding the Japa phenomenon.
